Pupils learn to understand and respect our common humanity, diversity and differences so that they can go on to form
the effective, fulfilling relationships that are an essential part of life and learning.

The Curriculum

Religious Studies provides within the curriculum a reminder that education concerns the whole person, and
that there is something more. It reflects on the ‘why’ questions in life.

Years 3 to 6

Year 3 – Pupils learn about creation stories from different religions and discuss issues such as protecting the environment and responsibility.

Year 4 – Pupils study units on the beliefs and practices of Christianity, Sikhism and Hinduism.

Year 5 – Pupils study units on the beliefs and practices of Judaism and Buddhism. 

Year 6 – Pupils study units on the beliefs and practices of Christianity and Islam. Pupils also consider the beliefs of atheists, humanists and agnostics. 

Years 7 and 8

Year 7 – Pupils start the Common Entrance course. They study six Old Testament stories and relate them to contemporary issues, such as: stewardship, sacrifice, the problem of evil, the coexistence of science and religion, animal welfare, envy, obedience, temptation, justice, human rights, punishment and the death penalty.

Year 8 – In Year 8, pupils complete the Common Entrance course. They study eight New Testament stories and relate them to contemporary issues, such as: the sanctity of life, euthanasia, social justice, the distribution of wealth, forgiveness and reconciliation, prejudice and discrimination. The Year 8 exam consists of a written paper and an oral presentation, which forms part of a cross-curricular project with English.

Study Visits

To complement the curriculum there are study visits that help children comprehend other faiths or religious events.

• St. Andrew’s Church, Spratton Hall, where we celebrate key dates in the Christian calendar.
• The Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Neasden.
• Coventry Cathedral.
• The Holocaust Centre in Newark.